Not long ago, most people could feign ignorance regarding the illegality of downloading media without paying for it. However, the much-publicized Napster lawsuits and similar civil cases over the last two decades have created near ubiquitous public awareness about copyright protections and downloading digital content. Some individual users faced six-digit judgements for downloading music or films.
Unless the creator of a product explicitly offers it for free download, it is a violation of copyright law to provide content to others for download or to download and consume a work of media yourself. Interestingly enough, two companies actively enforcing their rights against digital pirates are well-known pornography production companies.
Adult entertainment is big business
Pornographic videos and photographs exist in a massive supply online. However, the consuming public seemingly can’t get enough, with more titles and still images released daily on countless platforms. Given the massive potential for profit, it should come as little surprise that companies invested in this industry want to protect their copyright.
While some individuals and companies freely share their pornographic videos, others expect to be paid for their efforts. Individuals who use BitTorrent should be mindful of the legal risks that they take, as it could be possible for them to end up facing civil penalties in the future for that decision. Some adult fillm companies are pushing back against the illegal downloading of their films via BitTorrent.
Last year, Malibu Media filed 550 piracy lawsuits. It already filed 138 in January. Another adult entertainment company, Strike 3 Holdings, has already filed 133 lawsuits related to BitTorrent downloads. Those numbers will undoubtedly rise as the year marches onward, meaning that thousands of people could wind up in court over their decision to download a pornographic film.
You have the right to defend yourself against a BitTorrent lawsuit
Anyone facing a civil lawsuit related to digital content should take that lawsuit seriously. It isn’t just an attempt to frighten you or other people. It could have serious legal and financial consequences. Without a solid defense, you could have to worry about losing the lawsuit and paying for any alleged copyright violation.
Thankfully, there are many potential legal strategies that can help you defend yourself against allegations of copyright infringement or illegally downloading content. Issues with your IP address, shared internet access or even someone hacking or skimming your Wi-Fi could all leave you facing a lawsuit without ever downloading anything.
Discussing your situation with an attorney who understands the specific considerations involved in a BitTorrent or downloading defense is in your best interests. An attorney can help you review the evidence and determine the best option for buiding a defense strategy against the claim of illegal BitTorrent use for copyright infringement.